How to Make a Natural Disinfectant Spray

By Suzanne Anderson March 25, 2023 18 mins read 83 Views

In this modern day and age, the world is full of harmful substances from the food we eat to the household products we use every day. And when it comes to safety, the regulations are pretty weak. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency only requires companies to list ingredients that are active disinfectants or potentially harmful.

Not only can these products be dangerous, but they can also be very expensive. Over the years we’ve transitioned our home to store-bought cruelty-free and “green” cleaners, but these come with an even higher price tag. What you may not realize is that you most likely have all of the products you would need to keep your house clean hiding in your pantry and medicine cabinet!

Plastic spray bottle with text overlay "homemade cleaning spray."

Why You Should Avoid Conventional Cleaners
- Toxic Load
- Environmental Effects
- More Cost Effective to Make Your Own
- Kind To Animals
Key Ingredients
Expert Tips
How To Use This Natural Disinfectant Spray
More Natural and Cruelty-Free Guides

Why You Should Avoid Conventional Cleaners

Toxic Load

Conventional cleaners may seem harmless because of how frequently they are used, but many contain potent chemicals that can cause unnecessary risks. Most surface cleaner sprays contain toxins such as phthalates (a hormone disruptor that can trigger asthma and migraines), 2-butoxyethanol (which can contribute to lung, kidney, and liver damage), and some products even contain “preservatives that release low levels of cancer-causing formaldehyde.” (1) Yikes.

Environmental Effects

Not only are the chemicals being used in cleaners impacting people’s health in a negative way, but they are also causing significant contamination to our planet. When a cleaner is flushed down the toilet or rinsed down a bathtub or a sink, waste removal processes remove a lot of the chemicals, but many aren’t filtered out.

Nitrogen, phosphorus, and ammonia are common contaminants that aren’t filtered out and can cause major issues. While these are natural elements of our ecosystem, when massive loads of these nutrients are dumped into streams, rivers, lakes, and the ocean, it can cause “nutrient pollution,” which offsets the balance of the ecosystem causing huge problems. (2)

More Cost Effective to Make Your Own

Making homemade cleaners is extremely easy, just as effective, and eliminates the risks of being exposed to dangerous chemicals. And, making your own cleaners will also save your family a lot of money! A spray bottle of surface cleaner typically costs $4 – $5, while a gallon of white vinegar typically costs $3 – $4 and can be used to make countless bottles of natural cleaners. Win-win-win!

Kind To Animals

Many conventional cleaning products and companies rely on outdated animal testing which is cruel, ineffective, and unnecessary. Today it’s easy to find safe, natural products that are also cruelty-free. Even major retailers like Target and Walmart offer many products that are cruelty-free (look for “cruelty-free” or the leaping bunny symbol on the label).

Key Ingredients

It’s easier than ever to eliminate unnecessary chemicals when all you need are three simple ingredients and a few minutes to mix it all up!

White vinegar – This natural cleaning powerhouse is great for breaking down mildew, dirt, and hard water stains, and is a natural disinfectant!
Water – Use water to dilute the vinegar to suitable levels for cleaning without being too harsh. You can use regular tap water or distilled water if you plan to use the spray on glass and want to avoid streaks.
Essential oils – Lemon essential oil is great for cleaning and adds a lovely fresh scent. For additional antibacterial properties, consider adding tea tree oil.

How to Make a Natural Disinfectant Spray

Expert Tips

Make sure to shake up your homemade cleaning spray before each use to evenly distribute the essential oils.
Use a glass spray bottle, preferably amber, green, or cobalt. These dark color bottles prevent the essential oils from breaking down from exposure to light.

How To Use This Natural Disinfectant Spray

The power of vinegar is really versatile and great for use all around the home. Here are the best ways to use this homemade cleaning spray:

Appliances like coffee makers, microwaves, and even glass top ranges can be cleaned with this solution. Just avoid parts that are metal or rubber as the vinegar will rust and eat away at them.
Mirrors and windows
Countertops—As long as they’re not stone like granite or marble. Vinegar will eat away at the coating due to its high acidity so for stone countertops use dish soap and water instead.
Faucets
Showers and tubs

Hand with a green rubber glove on holding a glass spray bottle of natural homemade cleaner.

More Natural and Cruelty-Free Guides

As you run out of your usual cleaners this year, instead of restocking with conventional cleaners, try upgrading to more natural cruelty-free brands or swapping it out with homemade, vinegar-based cleaners! You’ll be surprised at how effectively they work and how much money you’ll save as well. Here are more guides to help you get started:

This full Guide to Cruelty-Free and Vegan Cleaning Products makes it easy to know which brands are worth purchasing.
Find out how to Avoid Animal Products in Your Home with this quick guide that includes easy cruelty-free alternatives!
Update your skincare routine with the Best Cruelty-Free Skincare Brands & Tips

Glass bottle filled with natural disinfectant spray.

Natural Disinfectant Spray {3 Ingredients}

This natural, homemade, chemical-free surface cleaning spray is extremely easy, cheap, and just as effective as a store-bought cleaning spray!

Keyword diy all purpose cleaner, homemade cleaning spray, natural disinfectant spray, surface cleaner

Prep Time 3 minutes

Total Time 3 minutes

Servings cups

Author Dr. Kasey Johnson

Ingredients

1 cup white vinegar
2 cups water
10-20 drops essential oil Lemon essential oil is an amazing cleaning agent!

Instructions

Add the white vinegar, water, and essential oil to a spray bottle, shake it up, and it’s ready to use!

This homemade cleaning spray guide was written with support from Dr. Kasey Johnson.

Resources:

1. Environmental Working Group: Cleaning Supplies & Your Health
2. Environmental Protection Agency: Chemicals and Toxins

The post How to Make a Natural Disinfectant Spray appeared first on World of Vegan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much meat is OK on a plant-based diet?

No amount of meat is permissible on a plant-based diet. This dietary lifestyle eliminates all animal products, including meat, fish, and poultry. Many vegan substitutes are available that offer the same taste and texture, but without any animal products. For example, soy-based meats such as tofu, seitan (wheat gluten), tempeh (fermented soybeans), and mock duck made from mushrooms can mimic the taste of traditional meat dishes. Vegetarian burgers made from black beans and quinoa are very similar to beef burgers. Other tasty vegan alternatives include coconut bacon strips or eggplant bacon bits; tofu mayo; veggie hot dogs made with seasoned textured soy protein; and faux chicken strips from wheat gluten. These are excellent options for those who want to switch to a plant-based diet. They're flavorful, protein-packed, and don't contain any animal products.

What are the negatives to plant-based meats?

Plant-based meat has the disadvantage of not having essential vitamins and minerals as animal proteins. Certain essential amino acids, such as vitamin B12 and heme iron are lower in plant-based meat than in animal proteins. Additionally, some plant-based meats contain more sodium than real meat due to the abundant amount needed for preservation. Online and in-store purchases of quality vegan products can prove more expensive and more time-consuming. Some vegan alternatives may also require more effort during meals when cooking times are taken into account, as well as potentially longer food preparation times.

Is a diet based on plants the same as a vegan one?

No, a plant-based diet is not the same as a vegan diet. A plant-based diet consists of an eating plan that emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts. While this eating plan may not allow for the consumption of meat and dairy, small amounts of animal proteins might be allowed. Veganism on the other side is a ethical lifestyle choice. This involves eating only plant-based foods and avoiding animal products. Although vegans may also choose to adopt a plant based diet as part their lifestyle, they are separate concepts.

What are some tips for transitioning to a plant-based diet?

It can be daunting to change to a plant-based lifestyle, but with the right knowledge and support it can be an exciting lifestyle shift. Here are some tips to help transition to this type of diet.

For optimal macronutrients, vitamins and minerals, structure your meals around whole foods instead of processed foods.
It is important to create delicious meals that satisfy dietary requirements and are fun to eat.
Create a support network, such as friends, family, or certified healthcare professionals.
Trying new recipes to add excitement while eating well.
Gradually changing habits while also being mindful of nutrient intake.

People can increase their chances to maintain a healthy lifestyle by gradually changing to a plant-based diet.

Can a plant-based diet cause harm?

While many people have reported health benefits from switching to a plant-based lifestyle, there are risks involved in any type of diet. When switching to a plant-based diet, it is important to ensure that proper vitamin and mineral intake is taken, including B12, iron and zinc. Negative health effects can be caused by eating a poor diet that does not include replacements for these nutrients. Living a vegan or plant-based lifestyle could also mean you cut out dairy and eggs. This can cause muscle damage. People who follow a plant-based diet must adapt their diets to meet their nutritional needs.

Statistics

In fact, according to research published in the going plant-based can cut grocery bills by $750 a year per person, Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition. (forksoverknives.com)
A study found that livestock provides just 18 percent of calories consumed globally but takes up 83 percent of farmland. (forksoverknives.com)

External Links

How To

How do I meal prep for a plant based diet?

Preparing plant-based meals ahead of time makes cooking easy and efficient. It requires some planning and preparation, but it can help save you time while promoting healthy eating habits. It is easier to follow a plant-based diet by prepping meals ahead of time. The food will be ready for you when you are hungry. Additionally, it makes it easy to have more time for relaxation and exercise by not having a need to cook every day.

The key to successful plant-based meal prepping is prioritizing variety and emphasizing whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. You can get better nutrition by choosing different ingredients with different colors. For example, you could use spinach for greens, orange/red carrots for orange/reds, or brown rice to make complex carbohydrates. In each meal, a balanced amount of fiber, protein, as well as some fats, should be the goal. This will vary depending on the person's preferences.

Consider using a multi-cooker and slow cooker to maximize your meal prep efficiency.

You can easily prepare meals for a plant diet by following these simple steps. Create a grocery plan based upon the recipes you intend to prepare. To get fresh produce and other quality items, you should shop at local farmers' market or health food shops if possible. Next, you need to make sure that you allow enough time to prepare your food. These alternatives mean less effort and maximum savings. Proper storage equipment can also help food stay fresh until they are needed.

Plant-based meal prep allows you to eat well, no matter how busy your life may be. People will achieve their nutritional goals quicker if they can take the guesswork out.